18641, Pittston, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 18641, Pittston, Pennsylvania is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.41 percent of residents in 18641 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.92 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center with a distance of 6.48 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Pittston, PA (ZIP Code 18641)

The ability to access timely and appropriate healthcare is a cornerstone of individual and community well-being. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of Pittston, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18641), specifically focusing on the accessibility of healthcare services via various transportation options. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, offering prospective residents valuable insight into the ease with which they can reach essential medical care. This information is crucial for anyone **moving to Pittston**, as it directly impacts their quality of life.

The score, expressed on a scale of 1 to 10 (with 10 being the most accessible), reflects the relative ease and efficiency of reaching healthcare facilities from the center of Pittston. Factors such as traffic congestion, service frequency, and the availability of ADA-compliant transportation are all considered. This is more than just a number; it's a snapshot of the practical realities of **healthcare access** within the community.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in Pittston. The central location of the city allows for relatively quick access to a variety of medical facilities. The primary roadways influencing drive times include Interstate 81 (I-81), which runs north-south, and the Pennsylvania Route 315 (PA-315), which provides a crucial east-west connection. Pennsylvania Route 11 (PA-11) offers a parallel route to I-81, serving as an alternative for local travel.

For residents in the heart of Pittston, a trip to Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Plains Township, a major regional hospital, typically takes between 15 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic. This drive primarily utilizes PA-315 and the access ramps to I-81. Wilkes-Barre General Hospital, another significant healthcare provider, is reachable within a similar timeframe, often involving travel on PA-11 and city streets.

Smaller clinics and specialist offices located within Pittston itself are generally accessible within a 5-10 minute drive. The efficiency of the local road network, including Main Street and Kennedy Boulevard, contributes to this convenience. The overall drive-time score is moderately favorable, reflecting the reasonable proximity of key healthcare facilities, but the reliance on personal vehicles introduces vulnerabilities associated with car ownership, maintenance, and traffic delays.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Pittston are limited, impacting the overall health score. The Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides bus service throughout the region, but the frequency and coverage within Pittston are not extensive. Several routes do serve the city, but the schedules often involve long wait times and may not align with the needs of individuals requiring urgent medical attention.

The LCTA Route 18 serves the Pittston area, providing connections to Wilkes-Barre and other surrounding communities. While this route offers a degree of **transportation** accessibility, the limited service hours and infrequent stops pose challenges for those without personal vehicles. The buses are generally ADA-compliant, featuring ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the infrequency of service and the potential for lengthy travel times detract from their overall utility as a reliable means of accessing healthcare.

The public transit score is relatively low, reflecting the limitations of the current system. The lack of robust public transit significantly disadvantages residents who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. This is a critical factor to consider for anyone evaluating the overall health accessibility of the area.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Pittston area. These services offer a more flexible option than public transit, particularly for those with limited mobility or those needing transportation at non-traditional hours. However, the availability of drivers can fluctuate, and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can significantly increase the cost of **transportation**.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance during travel. Several companies operate in the region, including MedTrans and American Medical Response (AMR). These services provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained medical personnel accompanying the patient.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services improves the overall health score. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited financial resources. The reliability of ride-sharing services can also be a concern, as availability is not always guaranteed.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations:**

Based on the factors discussed, the Overall Health Score for access to healthcare in Pittston, PA (ZIP Code 18641) is a **6 out of 10**. This score reflects a mixed picture. The proximity of healthcare facilities and the availability of drive-time access contribute positively. The limited public transit options, however, and the potential cost and reliability concerns associated with ride-sharing and medical transport, detract from the score.

For individuals considering **moving to Pittston**, it is crucial to assess their personal transportation needs and abilities. Those who can drive and have access to a personal vehicle will find healthcare access relatively convenient. Those who rely on public transit or ride-sharing services should be prepared for potentially longer travel times and the associated costs.

The score highlights the importance of considering the accessibility of healthcare when making decisions about where to live. While Pittston offers a reasonable level of healthcare access, improvements in public transit and the affordability of alternative transportation options would significantly enhance the overall health score and improve the quality of life for all residents. Further investment in **transportation** infrastructure and services could significantly improve **healthcare access** for all residents, making Pittston an even more attractive place to live.